Jennifer Meece, Ph.D., a research scientist and director of the Integrated Research and Development Laboratory (IRDL) will serve as the new interim director of Marshfield Clinic Research Institute. She replaces Steve Jacobsen, M.D., Ph.D., who had served as interim director since early 2021.
Meece has been part of the Research Institute for more than 20 years, including the past 15 years as the IRDL director, has distinguished herself in a variety of roles. She is a past recipient of the Sebold Fellowship, and is nationally renowned for her work on influenza, blastomycosis, and COVID vaccine effectiveness.
“This is obviously a huge privilege and opportunity to continue to lead MCRI forward. We have brilliant scientific teams who conduct world class research," said Dr. Meece. “We are thrilled as a team to continue to evolve in our research programs to align our priorities to local and national needs. As the Health System continues to grow, we look for opportunities to expand our reach to touch more lives, bring research closer to our patients and engage our knowledgeable care delivery teams."
“Dr. Meece is a brilliant scientist and an outstanding leader. We are truly fortunate that she will be our next interim director," said Susan Turney, M.D., Marshfield Clinic Health System CEO. “This is an exciting moment for our Research Institute, and we are fortunate that Dr. Meece will lead us into the future."
Meece plans to have many conversations with Health System leaders over the coming months to highlight how important research is to the Health System's Mission, Vision and Values.
“I aim to support our scientific teams, do a lot of listening, and strategize growing our already strong research portfolio," Meece said. “I hope to do some traveling to other Marshfield Medical Center campuses as well."
“I also want to thank Dr. Steve Jacobsen for his strong leadership, guiding our Research Institute through this transition period," Dr. Turney said. “His experience, steady hand and insights into how we operate have been invaluable. Dr. Jacobsen has set us up for continued success, and that is a testament to his leadership abilities and vision."